politics
February 18, 2026
Former Trump strategist defends ties with Epstein
Steve Bannon has insisted his ties with Jeffrey Epstein were strictly professional after newly released files revealed extensive contact
TL;DR
- Steve Bannon, former White House strategist, claims his communications with Jeffrey Epstein were for a documentary project.
- Newly released files reveal extensive contact between Bannon and Epstein, including Bannon texting Epstein an image rehabilitation strategy.
- Epstein reportedly offered Bannon perks like private jet travel and lodging, though Bannon's spokesman denies acceptance of the jet or medical care.
- Bannon admits to staying at Epstein's Paris apartment in March 2019.
- Bannon described his interactions as strictly professional, viewing them through the lens of a filmmaker interviewing a controversial figure.
- About 12 hours of interviews were conducted by Bannon for the documentary, with only two hours released so far.
- The Epstein files mention numerous global elites, including Bill Clinton, Elon Musk, and Prince Andrew.